Punch the baby monkey now has a “bodyguard” after viral zoo drama

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Punch, the baby monkey who became famous online after being left alone and then seen being pulled along, now has a dedicated keeper acting as his bodyguard at the zoo.

A young monkey has become popular online recently. First, people noticed and shared videos of him hugging a stuffed animal after it was believed he’d been left alone. Then, another video circulated showing him being pulled around by another monkey, which worried many viewers.

As TopMob reported earlier, the zoo addressed the criticism by explaining that Punch had been reprimanded by other monkeys, but none had seriously attacked him. They stated this behavior was typical as Punch settled into the group and adjusted to his new surroundings.

Now, a new update circulating on social media claims Punch has been given additional protection.

JUST IN – Little Punch monkey now has a bodyguard to protect him

— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) February 22, 2026

Update claims Punch has his own bodyguard

On February 22nd, Insider Paper reported on X (formerly Twitter) that the young monkey, nicknamed ‘Little Punch,’ now has a bodyguard. They shared a video showing Little Punch sitting near a rocky wall with a larger monkey standing protectively behind him.

The video quickly went viral on social media, and many people saw the bigger monkey as providing extra security after what had happened before.

Okay, so I was wondering why some of the monkeys seemed to be keeping an eye on the newer ones, and it turns out it’s just how monkey groups naturally work! It’s not like the zoo specifically told anyone to do it. Apparently, older, more confident monkeys often watch over the younger or less dominant ones as they get used to the group – it’s just their way of helping everyone settle in.

Punch’s story has gained international attention, and companies like IKEA have even donated stuffed animals to the zoo, inspired by the widespread coverage of the baby monkey’s fondness for them.

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2026-02-23 01:48